Faith on the move: Diocese of Erie prepares for regional Eucharistic processions on Corpus Christi
By Allison Mosier06/09/2025
On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the Diocese of Erie will join Catholics around the world in celebrating the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, commonly known as Corpus Christi. This feast honors the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and invites the faithful to give public witness to their belief that Christ dwells among us. Across the diocese, regional Eucharistic processions are planned, offering a unique and powerful opportunity for Catholics of all ages to come together in prayer, reverence and joyful celebration.
At the heart of the Corpus Christi tradition is the procession, a centuries-old practice that brings the Blessed Sacrament out into the streets. It is a sacred act of thanksgiving, testifying to our shared faith and proclaiming to the world that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist. As St. Augustine once said, "We become what we receive." Walking together as the Body of Christ, we reflect that truth in visible form.
Five regional processions will take place across the Diocese of Erie, with more being planned, inviting parishioners from every corner of the diocese to gather in unity. Each location offers a unique expression of the tradition while remaining rooted in the same purpose: to glorify Christ in the Eucharist and to bring him into the heart of our communities.
In Erie, the procession will begin at St. Peter Cathedral, the mother church of the diocese. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for adoration following the 11:00 a.m. Mass, and the procession will begin at 2:00 p.m., concluding with Benediction back at the cathedral. The faithful of the city and surrounding parishes are encouraged to take part in this deeply moving event.
At Holy Spirit Parish in DuBois, the procession will start at St. Catherine Church. After the 11:00 a.m. Mass and a period of adoration, the procession will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by Benediction. Families, students and parish groups will have the opportunity to walk in solidarity and give honor to the Blessed Sacrament.
In Meadville, the Epiphany of the Lord Parish will host a multi-stop procession beginning at St. Agatha Church following the 11:30 a.m. Mass. After a time of Eucharistic adoration, the faithful will process to St. Brigid Church and finally to St. Mary Church, where Benediction will take place at 8:15 p.m. This extended pilgrimage is an invitation to spend meaningful time in prayer and reflection.
St. Mary Parish in St. Marys will hold its 180th Annual Corpus Christi Procession, a treasured tradition in the Elk County region. The procession begins at St. Mary Church and concludes at Sacred Heart Church. In the event of inclement weather, all events will take place inside St. Mary Church.
In Sharon, the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed at the end of the 11:00 a.m. Mass at St. Joseph Church. The procession will form at 2:00 p.m. and is open to all in the surrounding region who wish to take part in this public act of faith.
These regional gatherings are a beautiful expression of unity across the 13 counties of the Diocese of Erie. From city neighborhoods to rural towns, the faithful are coming together in prayer and public witness to celebrate the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. As Catholics step outside their churches and into the streets, they proclaim with one voice and one heart that Christ is alive and present among us. Through these processions, the light and love of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament are carried into our communities, bringing hope, unity and a visible sign of faith that connects us all.
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